Formal Dresses
Windsor's formal dresses are redefining elegance for 2026. Think illusion panels that sculpt and contour, printed mesh gowns with bold florals or swirls, and slinky jersey knits that drape like liquid luxe. Daring cutouts bring a sleek edge to eveningwear, while cascading ruffles add movement and modern drama. These on-trend gowns prove that formal doesn’t have to mean predictable—they’re made for weddings, galas, and every post-worthy moment in between. Discover styles that are elevated, camera-ready, and designed to make you feel incredible and look unforgettable.
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STYLE SPOTLIGHT
Formal Dresses That Make Every Moment Feel Major
Windsor’s formal dresses are designed for those special occasions when your look has to be flawless. From sweeping formal gowns to sleek short silhouettes, this collection delivers drama, polish, and trend-right details that set the tone for any event. Think structured sheer corset bodices, dainty adjustable straps, adjustable lace-up backs, and glam high slits that blend comfort with high-impact style.
If you’re planning a gala, wedding, or milestone party, Windsor offers a range of formal party dresses in both fitted and flowy silhouettes to match your vibe. Go for a strapless satin gown with a sweetheart neckline for timeless elegance, or choose an asymmetrical hemline or bow-back detail for a fresh twist that feels modern and fun.
No matter where the night takes you, Windsor’s formal dresses give you options that feel special, stylish, and photo-ready. Shop Windsor’s formal dresses near you, online, in-app, or at one of 350+ stores nationwide, and find the look that will make your night unforgettable.
Tips for Choosing the Best Formal Dress for Your Body Type
- Hourglass: Slay those curves with a fitted corset bodice and flowing skirt.
- Pear‑Shaped: Balance out your look with a structured top and full skirt.
- Rectangle: Create curves with a cinched waist and flared hem.
- Apple‑Shaped: Draw eyes upward with a V‑neckline and empire waist.
For more styling inspo, hit up our blog guides like “The Ultimate Gala Dresses Guide” or “Sexy Formal Dresses – Create an Eye‑Catching Look” and get ready to own every moment.
What’s the Difference Between a Formal and a Semi-Formal Dress?
Formal and semi-formal dresses differ based on event dress codes and styling. Formal attire, often called black-tie, features glamorous floor-length gowns with luxe details like rhinestones, lace, and beading—perfect for galas, weddings, and proms. Popular silhouettes include mermaid, ball gown, and A-line styles.
Semi-formal dresses offer more variety in length and design, making them ideal for homecoming, weddings, and cocktail parties. These styles range from midi to short lengths.
The venue and occasion can also guide your choice—an upscale wedding may call for a floor-length gown, while an outdoor event might be perfect for a sleek midi dress with a stylish neckline.
Are Formal Dresses Always Long?
Not always! While long gowns are classic for formal events, modern formal attire includes various lengths and styles. Windsor’s collection of women’s formalwear features short, midi, and long dresses. Explore dramatic mermaid and column silhouettes for timeless elegance, or opt for trendy alternatives like high-low hemlines and two-piece designs for a fresh take on formal fashion.
Find your perfect formal dress at Windsor any time of year, available online, in-app, and in over 350 stores across the U.S. and Canada. Shop now for trend-driven styles that make you shine and every event unforgettable!
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Chloe Glitter A-Line Mini Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for your twirl-worthy moments, the Chloe glitter A-line dress catches the light with every step while holding a beautifully structured shape. The strapless neckline keeps it clean and modern, letting the shimmer and silhouette do all the talking.
Fit & Features
- Glitter woven fabric, woven crinoline lining, stretchy knit lining
- Strapless folded neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- A-line mini silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, birthdays, date nights, formal celebrations, graduations, sorority events, fancy brunches
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000693
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: LIGHT, BLUE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Best Seller
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Gabriella Satin Floral Lace-Up Dress
Special Occasion
Flirty, polished, and made for golden-hour entrances, the Gabriella satin floral skater dress moves with a soft, voluminous sweep that catches every eye. Finished with a lace-up back for that just-right fit, it’s the kind of dress that feels equal parts refined and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin-lined fabric, floral pattern, tulle and satin woven linings
- Square halter neckline, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Fit and flare skater silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Weddings, graduations, birthday brunches, garden parties, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, formal occasions
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000692
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Laney Plunging Halter Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
For the nights when the dress code calls for drama and you fully intend to deliver, the Lainey mermaid dress makes a striking entrance. Designed with a plunging halter neckline, ruching, and an elongated sash detail, this slinky knit formal dress sculpts and flows in all the right places—equal parts chic and undeniably alluring.
Fit & Features
- Slinky knit fabric with metallic threading, full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Sleeveless plunging V-neckline
- Tie-back halter straps
- Open back, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Front sash accent, ruched detailing
- Floor-length mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie parties, formal weddings, galas, dressed-up dinners, rooftop parties, and chic soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001456
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Reina Metallic Knit Strapless Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
For the entrance that deserves its own spotlight, the Reina metallic knit mermaid dress was made to sculpt, shimmer, and stun. Designed with a strapless sweetheart neckline, figure-defining ruching, and a lace-up back detail, it’s the kind of gown that turns a black-tie RSVP into your personal runway moment.
Fit & Features
- Metallic knit fabric with full-length knit lining, high stretch
- Strapless plunging sweetheart neckline, center wired design, padded bust
- Corset bodice, flexible boning
- Lace-up back design with tie closure, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Ruched waist
- Floor-sweeping mermaid silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Black-tie parties, galas, red-carpet events, fancy rooftop parties, dressed-up dinners, formal affairs, and chic soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001457
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Alaiya Floral Chiffon Ruffle A-Line Dress
Special Occasion
Light, airy, and made for your most picturesque plans, the Alaiya floral chiffon A-line dress moves like a breeze with every step. Designed with soft ruffles, a romantic halter neckline, and a lace-up back detail, it’s the kind of dress that turns a simple entrance into a moment.
Fit & Features
- Floral-printed chiffon fabric with full-length lining
- Sleeveless sweetheart neckline, padded bust, ruched detailing
- Halter tie-back straps
- Open back, lower lace-up back design with tie closure, lower back zipper with hook-eye closure
- Floor-length A-line silhouette, flowy ruffled accents
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Birthday celebrations, bridal showers, honeymoons, vacations, garden parties, and dressed-up dinners.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001450
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Anastasia Floral Chiffon A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Float into the room like it was always yours—the Anastasia chiffon A-line gown is all about soft movement and quiet drama. Designed with a flattering V-neckline, cascading tiered ruffles, and a lace-up back detail, it’s the kind of dress that turns every entrance into a moment.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, chiffon fabric with full-length lining
- V-neckline
- Tie shoulder straps
- Lace-up back
- Ruffled trim along the A-line silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Garden weddings, formal events, galas, engagement parties, bridal showers, garden parties, fancy brunches, birthday soirees, and dressy occasions.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001445
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $159.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Davina Satin Bodycon Sash Mini Dress
Special Occasion
For the entrance that feels effortlessly commanding, the Davina dress showcases sleek satin with a one-shoulder draped neckline and a sculpting bodycon silhouette. Ruched detailing contours the fit while a dramatic side sash adds fluid movement that elevates every step.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin, sewn-in knit lining
- Draped one-shoulder neckline
- Attached side sash
- Bodycon silhouette with ruched shaping
- Mini-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, birthday dinners, cocktail parties, formal celebrations, date nights, bachelorettes
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000688
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: MOCHA, LIGHT, BLUE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
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Sharen Floral Lace-Up Skater Dress
Special Occasion
Light, airy, and made for twirling through every RSVP, the Sharen floral dress brings just the right amount of romance to your entrance. Designed with a lace-up back and hidden side pockets, it’s the kind of piece that feels equal parts polished and playful.
Fit & Features
- Floral pattern, premium satin fabric, tulle and satin woven linings
- Square halter neckline with tie straps, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- Fit and flare skater silhouette
- Short-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, graduations, birthday brunches, garden parties, daytime formal soirees
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000691
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: M, L
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Kellie Satin Corset Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Confident and refined, the Kellie dress is designed to command attention with sleek structure and effortless allure. Crafted in satin with a sculpting corset bodice, this silhouette is elevated by a lace-up back and a high side slit that moves with intention.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, knit lining
- Sweetheart pleated neckline with spaghetti straps, padded bust
- Corset-structured bodice, flexible boning
- Lace-up back placket, zipper with hook-eye closure
- High side slit
- Form-hugging long silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, formal celebrations, upscale cocktail receptions, fashion-forward events, fancy birthday dinners, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, special date nights, rooftop hotel bar lounges
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001454
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: GOLD, BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
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Morgan Satin Lace-Up Mini Dress
Special Occasion
A modern classic with a hint of intrigue, the Morgan satin A-line dress is made for those moments when polished meets unforgettable. The lace-up back adds a striking finish, while the softly structured silhouette and hidden side pockets keep it effortlessly chic from every angle.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, tulle and woven linings
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Hidden side pockets
- Flared A-line mini-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Bridal celebrations, graduations, fancy birthday brunches, garden parties, engagement photoshoots, elopements, rehearsal dinners, honeymoons, formal celebrations, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05001-000695
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $64.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Renee Sequin Bow Mermaid Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for the kind of entrance that lingers long after you’ve walked by, the Renee dress brings drama and polish in equal measure. Crafted in sequin fabric with a satin pleated strapless neckline and finished with a statement satin back bow, this mermaid silhouette is made for weddings, galas, and every RSVP that calls for something unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Sequin mesh fabric, lined
- Satin pleated strapless neckline, non-slip grip lining
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Fitted mermaid silhouette that flares at the hem
- Statement satin detachable back bow with dramatic train detail
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, award nights, red-carpet occasions, elegant birthday events, formal milestone celebrations, fancy anniversary parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001458
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Stacey Rhinestone Trim Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For the nights when the dress code calls for something unforgettable, the Stacey satin mermaid gown sculpts and shimmers with every step. The rhinestone embellished neckline and off shoulder draping frame the corset bodice, while the high front slit and lace up back bring just the right amount of allure.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin-lined fabric
- Off-the-shoulder, rhinestone trim sweetheart neckline
- Short-sleeve cuffs, lace-up back
- Flexible boning inserts in the bodice
- High front slit, mermaid silhouette
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, red-carpet events, big birthdays, formal celebrations, elegant anniversaries
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001459
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Amalia Floral Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For the RSVP that calls for something unforgettable, the Amalia gown floats in floral chiffon with a strapless sweetheart neckline framed by delicate beaded applique and soft pleating. The corset bodice sculpts the waist, while the tiered, ruffled A-line skirt and high front slit add movement, turning every entrance into a moment.
Fit & Features
- Floral print, chiffon fabric, sewn-in crinoline and woven linings
- Strapless sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups, beaded applique, pleating
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Structured corset bodice, flexible boning
- High front slit
- Tiered ruffled A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridal celebrations, formal celebrations, galas, elegant engagement parties and photoshoots, big birthday events, quinceañeras, balls
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001469
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $199.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XXS
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Candence Rhinestone Formal Dress
Special Occasion
For the kind of entrance that lingers long after you’ve crossed the room, the Candence dress is pure after-dark elegance. Designed in a rhinestone embellished pattern over mesh, this mermaid fit stuns with a plunge V-neckline and dramatic open back—perfect for when the invitation calls for something unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Rhinestone-embellished pattern, mesh-lined fabric
- Plunge V-neckline, wide shoulder straps
- Open back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie galas, formal milestone celebrations, big birthday events, red-carpet evenings
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001472
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $159.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLUE
Available Size: L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Heather Crepe Satin Lace-Up Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortlessly refined, the Heather crepe mermaid gown is designed for moments that call for quiet confidence and timeless polish. Satin fabric drapes the strapless neckline while a lace-up back adds a subtle statement, creating a look that feels elevated, intentional, and unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Satin fabric trim and crepe fabric
- Strapless pleated neckline, non-slip grip lining
- Lace-up back
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, formal ceremonies, cocktail receptions, milestone celebrations, anniversary dinners, award dinners, rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, fashion events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001460
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $79.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Susan Floral A-Line Ball Gown
Special Occasion
Romantic yet refreshingly modern, the Susan floor-length gown feels like stepping into a garden soirée with confidence. The statement floral print sweeps across the structured bodice and full skirt, while hidden side pockets add an effortless ease.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, floral pattern, tulle and satin linings
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette, hidden side pockets
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, spring balls, fancy bridal showers, anniversary parties, derby event, big birthday events
Style Number/Barcode: 05004-000032
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $159.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Molly Floral Pleated A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Molly floral chiffon A-line gown moves like a dream with every step. The sweetheart strapless neckline and softly pleated skirt create a romantic silhouette that feels effortlessly elevated for any special occasion.
Fit & Features
- Paisley floral print, chiffon fabric, stretchy knit lining
- Sweetheart neckline, padded bra cups
- Keyhole bust cutout with tie
- Mini lace-up back, open back, lower zipper and hook-eye closure
- Pleated A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Destination and outdoor weddings, vacations, resort dinners, honeymoons, birthday soirees, summer cocktail parties, bridal showers, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001464
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $129.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: WHITE, PRINT
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Constance Satin A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Designed for elegant entrances and unforgettable evenings, the Constance dress moves with quiet confidence and timeless allure. Crafted in satin with a strapless neckline and fluid A-line silhouette, it delivers graceful drama through soft pleating and a sweeping floor-length hem.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, crepe bonded hem lining
- Strapless neckline, padded bra cups, non-slip grip lining
- Back zipper and hook-eye closure
- Form-hugging bodice, asymmetric low waist seam
- A-line pleated silhouette, floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie weddings, galas, balls, formal celebrations, nights at the opera, award dinners, fancy date nights, anniversary parties, fashion-forward events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001462
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $119.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BLACK
Available Size: XS, S, M
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jemma Halter Lace-Up Mermaid Dress
Special Occasion
The Jemma gown is the definition of understated drama, designed for the kind of entrance that feels effortless yet unforgettable. Crafted in sleek knit with a sculpting mermaid silhouette, it features a refined square halter neck and a striking lace-up back that adds a modern, alluring finish.
Fit & Features
- Sleek knit-lined fabric with subtle sheen
- Square halter neckline with tie straps
- Lace-up back design
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black-tie weddings, galas, formal celebrations, engagement parties, elegant anniversaries, rehearsal dinners, and birthday soirees.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001461
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Megan Leopard Floral A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Romantic with a touch of drama, the Megan A-line dress moves beautifully with every step, designed for moments that call for something unforgettable. Featuring a leopard floral print, a flattering V-neck, and a lace-up open back, it finishes with ruffled trim and a high front ruffled slit for a look that feels both polished and bold.
Fit & Features
- Lace-lined fabric with leopard floral print throughout
- V-neckline, adjustable spaghetti straps
- Lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- A-line silhouette with ruffled trim
- High front ruffled slit
- Floor-length hem
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, formal celebrations, destination vacations, special date nights, birthday events, fancy brunches, engagement parties
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001463
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: BROWN
Available Size: XS, S, M, L
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Jaylene Satin Corset Slit Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Made for the kind of entrance that turns heads mid-step, the Jaylene mermaid gown delivers sculpted drama with every movement. The sequin embellished corset bodice, low open back, and high front slit come together in an undeniably striking silhouette.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, smooth knit lining
- V-neckline, adjustable spagehtti straps, padded bra cups
- Sheer sequin corset mesh bodice, flexible boning
- Low open back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- Mermaid floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, black tie occasions, weddings, galas, balls, formal celebrations, red carpet events
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001477
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $99.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: NAVY
Available Size: XS, S
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Vivienne Floral Brocade Lace-Up Dress
Special Occasion
The Vivienne is the kind of gown that turns every entrance into a slow-motion moment. Designed in a dreamy brocade fabric with an airy A-line silhouette, this dress pairs a softly draped cowl neckline with a striking lace-up back for that unforgettable “where did you get that?” effect.
Fit & Features
- Chiffon fabric with smooth woven lining
- Sleeveless with adjustable straps
- Draped cowl neckline
- Floral brocade design
- Side hidden zipper and hook-eye closure
- Lace-up back design
- Floor length A-line silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, galas, weddings, and black-tie affairs.
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001478
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $109.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK, SAGE
Available Size: XS, S, M, L, XL
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Natasha Satin A-Line Formal Dress
Special Occasion
The Natasha gown captures that perfect balance of elegance and allure for evenings that call for something unforgettable. Designed in satin with a softly draped cowl neckline, this A-line gown features a lace-up strappy back and a high front wrap slit that moves beautifully with every step.
Fit & Features
- Premium satin fabric, smooth knit lining
- Cowl neckline, spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Strappy lace-up back, zipper and hook-eye closure
- High front wrap slit
- A-line floor-length silhouette
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, bridesmaids, weddings, formal rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, black tie galas, balls, milestone celebrations
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001474
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $89.90
Availability: Out of Stock
Product Badge:- Ships Free
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Sandy Satin Tie-Back Chiffon Formal Dress
Special Occasion
Effortless elegance meets modern allure in the Sandy gown designed to glide with every step. A mermaid silhouette flows into a sheer chiffon floor-length hem, while the tie-open back adds a soft, romantic finish that feels refined yet unforgettable.
Fit & Features
- Stretch satin fabric, short knit lining
- V-neckline, spaghetti straps, padded bra cups
- Open tie-back design, zipper and hook-eye closure
- Mermaid silhouette
- Sheer chiffon floor-length hem with train
- Runs true to size
Where to Wear:
Prom, weddings, black tie galas, formal celebrations, engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, red-carpet occasions, fashion-forward events, award dinners, fancy birthday parties, milestone celebrations, special date nights
Style Number/Barcode: 05002-001484
Category Name: Formal Dresses
Price: $69.90
Availability: In Stock
Available Color: PINK
Available Size: XS, S, M, L